Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in skin care but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Ada Chen, Founder of Chuan's Promise, located in Denver, CO, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
Chuan's Promise is a natural skincare line focused on sustainability and inclusivity. Our products include clay masks, cleansers, moisturizers, body products, and more. All Chuan's Promise products are cruelty-free, ethically manufactured in Denver, and packaged in compostable and/or recyclable packaging. Our customers are interested in skincare and beauty and also care about sustainability and the impact their product choices have on the earth.
Tell us about yourself
I have a background in tech marketing and business, but a few weeks after leaving my corporate job, I became my dad's primary caregiver when he was hospitalized. During this time, I stopped taking care of myself, and the stress nearly ruined my skin. I couldn't find options to treat and soothe my sensitive skin, so I created them, and in the process, I learned about the true importance of self-care. Empowered by this experience, I launched Chuan's Promise to help others remember to take care of themselves and simultaneously change the beauty industry from the inside out.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
As a business owner, my biggest accomplishment has been increasing our products' sustainability. When we launched, our dry products were packaged in recyclable metal tins. However, we realized that we could be even more sustainable if we moved to biodegradable packaging. So, this kicked off a yearlong process to move to paper jars made from FSC-certified paper, vegetable ink, and glue. This means that when customers use our products, they're creating minimal waste throughout the product's lifecycle - from creation and manufacturing through an empty product at the end of the day.
What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?
As a solo founder, working on your business can be lonely. It is an isolating experience, especially with so much on your plate. I've found it extremely beneficial to read other solopreneurs' stories and engage with a community of entrepreneurs to keep motivated and share progress.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- Take care of yourself. In order for you to contribute your best work to your business, you need to be mentally and physically well. Build practices and processes to help you take care of yourself and check in regularly.
- Prioritization is key. Make sure you are always prioritizing the work that will move the needle for your business and help you meet your business goals.
- Set boundaries. It's easy to work around the clock on your idea, but without boundaries, that can lead to burnout and setbacks. Set boundaries to have a healthy relationship with your work, and lead by example.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://chuanspromise.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/chuanspromise/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chuanspromise/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/chuanspromise
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/adayjchen/
If you like what you've read here and have your own story as a solo or small business entrepreneur that you'd like to share, then please answer these interview questions. We'd love to feature your journey on these pages.
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